Can Salaried Employees Receive Overtime Pay?

Some salaried employees are exempt from federal overtime, while others are nonexempt and must receive overtime when the federal requirements apply. The answer depends on the specific exemption, not the word "salary" on a pay statement.

For executive, administrative and professional exemptions, federal rules examine how the employee is paid and what the employee actually does. A title such as manager, administrator or professional does not settle the issue. Each exemption has its own duties requirements.

This guide does not list a salary threshold because official amounts can be affected by court decisions and regulatory changes. The current U.S. Department of Labor materials should be checked at the time the classification is reviewed.

A state can require a higher salary level, apply a different duties test or protect additional workers. When federal and state law both cover the work, each test needs review.

Use the State Overtime law directory, then confirm the current exemption rules through the state's official labor agency listed in the U.S. Department of Labor state office directory.

The overtime calculator can estimate pay after the user supplies hours and a rate. It does not classify a job, decide which exemption applies or replace a review of salary and duties requirements.